Selecting that perfect wedding venue shouldn’t be stressful or overwhelming. It should be exciting, inspiring and should set the tone for the entire wedding planning process.

I don’t know about you, but as a day-of wedding coordinator here in Gilbert, Arizona, the venue has always been one of my favorite aspects of the wedding. Spending many years working beautiful and unique weddings at Val Vista Lakes, there is just something about the venue that not only sets the mood for the wedding and provides the backdrop, but truly has an emotion and an atmosphere of its own.

That perfect wedding venue will just ‘feel right.’

Are you shopping for a perfect wedding venue? Well, there are a few things you need to consider to accomplish your goal effortlessly.

1.     Size of Audience

An estimation of how many guests will be attending your wedding is essential. The wedding setting should accommodate all people comfortably. The easiest thing to do in terms of making sure that your Arizona wedding venue has enough space for everyone is to know your guest list, or at least a rough estimate, when going into the venue to tour. Industry says that 30% of the guests you invite will send regrets so keep that in mind when discussing capacity. If your guests list is 200 people then expect between 140-150 will attend. This means don’t select a venue that will only hold 100.

2.     Driving and Traffic Considerations

Your ideal wedding venue should be accessible. The traffic should be flowing freely. Your guests should be able to locate the venue effortlessly. Alternatively, it should be searchable via Google Maps for convenience. You cannot afford to let your guests get lost when driving to and from the wedding venue. If you do select a venue off the beaten path, be sure to provide exact directions to find the venue. If not, you run the risk of your gusts showing up late and delaying the start of the ceremony.

3.     Cost

One of the most significant factors you need to put into consideration is the cost. Some places can be too expensive yet others can be affordable. A perfect venue does not have to be costly but convenient. An ideal wedding venue should be affordable, accommodating and comfortable. Check out the average costs for a wedding venue in your area. Just like you might compare housing prices, or car prices, you need to look at this venue just as you’d look at making a large purchase. Create a spreadsheet listing your top favorite venues so you can compare each line item to make an informed decision rather one based off emotion.

4.     The Weather Factor

The last thing you want is to get rained on during your wedding. For that, contemplate choosing a venue that will be appropriate for the season and can handle any weather issues. Trust me, not everything will run as smoothly as you might want...especially during certain seasons here in Arizona. For example, if you decide to get married in January then its best to choose a reception location that is indoors since dusk will bring coldness. Make sure you ask during the venue tour what their backup plan is in inclement weather. Better to be prepared, than sorry.

5.     Parking

You may want to ensure that your guests have ample parking area to avoid inconveniencing them. The best wedding venue should be able to accommodate at least half of your head count (assuming most guests will share a ride). The parking should be secure and accessible. The last thing that you want is for the father of the bride to be running late and not find parking...running into the venue at the very last second and walking you down the aisle with sweat pouring down his brow. I’ve seen it...and it adds that touch of stress and overwhelming emotions to your wedding that you can easily avoid.

Choosing a wedding venue for your big day doesn’t have to be stressful. In fact, it should be the most fun, inspiring and one of the most exciting decisions you make for your wedding! 

Happy Planning! ~Janet